TONY HATCHETT

DJ Tony Hatchett turned his natural ear for and love of music into a DJ career that has spanned more than 30 years. Born on Chicago’s South Side, he started playing music at family functions with his younger brother, Andre. In 1978, while attending a party at St. Ailbe Catholic School, Tony met a group of DJs, who called themselves “The Chosen Few.” The founder, Wayne Williams, and his younger brother, Jesse Saunders, played disco music while different dance groups competed against each other. . Tony instantly was moved by the power of the music and the effect it had on the crowd and the dancers.

In 1980, Tony was asked to join the expanding DJ crew, where he continued to hone his craft and expand his love of music. He played at several clubs that were pivotal in the formation of house music, including: the Loft, Tree of Life, Sauer’s, 1st Impressions and numerous high schools throughout the city. He also was the first South Side-based DJ to play on the city’s West Side. Today, Tony resides in Houston, Texas, where continues to play on radio and at events. Each July, he travels back to Chicago to DJ alongside his Chosen Few brothers at group’s signature Chosen Few Old School Reunion Picnic.